Gift Guide: Gifting For Charity

In these strange economic times, it's even more important than ever to support nonprofits and charities that are working to preserve people's homes and healthy living spaces. With that in mind, I've chosen some of my favorite charities that work with gardens or housing issues. I can't emphasize the importance of these programs enough. Some, like Habitat For Humanity, you've probably heard of, while others, like the Ruth Bancroft Garden, are more locally based, but still do very important work.

Even if we're all running around like crazy trying to craft or buy gifts for our friends and family members, I think that it's important to stand back for a moment and reflect on the important work that these organizations are doing. After all, our communities are an extension of our homes, and keeping our communities healthy is just as important as maintaining our individual homes. If you have the need to find a meaningful gift for a loved one, consider giving in his or her name to one of these charities. It will make a world of difference! To see some charities that I love, read more.

i think that in today's day when we're all trying to be socially responsible - these are the ideas that make the most sense. my co-worker just mentioned that she was going to buy something for her sister that was environmentally friendly - i.e. protecting an acre in the rain forest or something. i think that participating in a charity or something like that is also really responsible and i think that they are great ideas

Great post, Casa! Every year, I buy "gifts" through Heifer.org; I like the way they set up their donations as if you're actually purchasing a goat, llama, or flock of geese. I try to find coordinating ornaments or little animal trinkets to wrap, with a note about the donation. My family loves it!